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Ben Provan
Director of Hangar6 Prototyping Studio @ First Flight Venture Center | Fractional Hire for Climate Tech & Co-Living Startups | Former CEO & Co-Founder at OpenDoor Co-Living (RIP)
Ben Provan is an accomplished entrepreneur and business leader with extensive experience in sustainable living solutions and technology innovation. Here's a comprehensive overview of his career and achievements:
Professional Background
Ben Provan served as the CEO and Co-founder of OpenDoor Coliving for nearly a decade, from July 2013 to March 2023.3 At OpenDoor, he pioneered the co-living industry in the United States, addressing urban housing challenges and the loneliness epidemic through innovative shared living spaces.12
Under his leadership, OpenDoor experienced significant growth:
- Expanded to 19 co-living properties
- Managed 406 units across 150,000 sq ft
- Operated in three markets: Bay Area, Portland, and Seattle
- Achieved $100M in assets under management
- Developed the first-ever net-zero energy co-living building3
Current Role
As of October 2023, Ben Provan has taken on the role of Director of Hangar6 at First Flight Venture Center in Durham, North Carolina.3 In this position, he oversees a prototyping and fabrication studio that supports high-science, high-impact startups throughout North Carolina.2
Education
- MBA in Sustainable Systems from Presidio Graduate School (2011-2013)3
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Cornell University (2001-2005), graduating Magna Cum Laude3
Previous Experience
Before OpenDoor, Ben's career included diverse roles:
- Business Manager at Magruder Ranch Grass-fed Beef (2009-2012)
- Technology Commercialization Strategist at Achor International Limited (2007-2009)
- Mechanical Design Engineer at Bose Corporation (2005-2007)3
Skills and Expertise
Ben Provan's expertise spans several areas:
- Entrepreneurship and startup scaling
- Sustainable living solutions
- Mechanical engineering and product design
- Business development and strategy
- Climate technology
- Prototyping and fabrication
Personal
Originally from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, Ben has returned to his home state after nearly two decades of working around the country.2 He is known for his commitment to using business and technology to create positive solutions for people and the planet.1
Ben Provan continues to be active in the startup ecosystem, offering his expertise as a consultant to various climate tech and co-living startups while leading Hangar6 at First Flight Venture Center.3
